In brief
A rare portrait of Prince William Nii Nortey Dowuona by Gustav Klimt, discovered at the TEFAF Maastricht fair, is in negotiations for sale to a major museum. This painting, associated with the colonial history of the Gold Coast, evokes complex themes around art and identity.
A previously obscured painting by Gustav Klimt, depicting the African prince William Nii Nortey Dowuona, has captured the art world's attention at the recent TEFAF Maastricht fair in the Netherlands. The painting, valued at approximately €15 million ($16.4 million), is currently under negotiation for sale to a significant museum, revealed the Vienna-based gallery Wienerroither and Kohlbacher, showcasing the work at the event.Co-founder Lui Wienerroither confirmed the ongoing discussions, emphasizing the thorough processes of due diligence required before high-value art sales. Klimt's portrait, striking for its near-photorealistic portrayal against a floral backdrop, illustrates the prince, who was part of a live exhibit in colonial-era Europe that displayed Africans in mock villages. This event took place in the summer of 1896 at Vienna's Zoological Garden, where Klimt may have encountered these displays.The rediscovery story traces back to 2023 when an Austrian couple brought the unsigned piece, appearing in poor condition, to the gallery. Upon investigation, the gallery found a barely discernible stamp from Klimt's estate, leading them to confirm with expert Alfred Weidinger that the artist had indeed painted a portrait of the Osu people's prince, though its location had been a mystery for decades.Further research indicates that Klimt retained the painting until his death in 1918, after which it was auctioned off in 1923. Its historical significance was acknowledged five years later when it was featured in a Klimt memorial exhibition in Vienna. The painting now poses a compelling narrative not just about artistry but also about the legacies of colonial encounters and representation in art history.
